This week, some of our Transition Academy students from Hogan Preparatory Academy stepped into a world many of them had only seen from the ground. Thanks to Aspire Aviation Academy and Red Tail Academy, our students spent the day exploring aviation careers through an interactive, hands-on tour.
Red Tail Academy was founded in 2020 and inspired by the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Its focus is to open doors to the world of aviation for underrepresented youth ages 12–18. Their mission is to expose, educate, and mentor young people who may not otherwise have access to aviation pathways. Aspire Aviation Academy, based at Kansas City’s Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport adds another layer of opportunity with world-class instruction, advanced aircraft, and modern training technology designed to prepare pilots for real-world careers.
During the visit, our students toured multiple hangars, examined aircraft up close, and learned about the many roles that keep airports running. One of the highlights was climbing into Aspire’s professional-grade flight simulators, where instructors guided them through takeoff, steering, and landing. Some walked away thinking, ”I could see myself doing this someday.” Others laughed and said the simulator confirmed they should never fly a plane, but every student talked about how much they enjoyed trying something completely new.
For students who learn differently, experiences like this have a unique impact. They build confidence, spark new interests, and provide real context for what different jobs look like beyond the classroom. The Hogan teachers who attended the tour also had a spark in their eye watching their students laughing, exploring, and dreaming.
“Our students thrive when learning is hands-on and grounded in real experiences,” said Kim Riley, Founder of The Transition Academy. “Tours like this help them envision futures they may have never considered. When young people can see a workplace, touch the tools, and talk with professionals, it shifts what they believe is possible for themselves.”
The day was filled with curiosity, excitement, and discovery. But more than that, it was a reminder of the power of exploration, and how opening a door, even for a few hours, can expand a young person’s understanding of their strengths and options.
We are grateful to Aspire Aviation Academy and Red Tail Academy for investing time and energy into showing our students what aviation has to offer. Experiences like these help shape career dreams, challenge assumptions, and move young people closer to futures they choose with confidence.
